Western Cape Emergency Medical Services (EMS) have responded to 69 249 calls over the busy festive season.

From 15 December 2024 to 15 January 2025, Emergency Centres attended to over 29 785 trauma cases, showcasing the high demand for critical care during holiday periods. 87 030 were non-trauma cases, which brings the final tally of cases managed to 120 868 total cases.

During the same period, forensic pathology services confirmed 89 deaths that were caused as a result of motor vehicle accidents.

“This festive season, the demand on our healthcare system was immense, with over 69 000 EMS calls and nearly 121 000 cases handled at emergency centres across the Western Cape,” said Wenger.

The festive season has become a period synonymous with road fatalities and high alcohol consumption.

“I urge everyone to practice road safety, avoid excessive alcohol consumption and to take measures to prevent accidents. By making responsible choices, we can ease the burden on our healthcare system and ensure critical resources are available for those who need them the most,” said Wenger.

Dr Saadiq Kariem, Chief of Operations at the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, commented on the intense demand placed on ECs. “These numbers highlight the pressure our Emergency Centres face every festive season. Trauma cases, many of which are preventable, account for a significant portion of these visits. We urge the public to take every precaution to avoid unnecessary emergencies, especially during high-demand periods.”

The department has used the opportunity to remind residents about they can help alleviate the pressure on Emergency Centres and Emergency Medical Services.

• Use ECs for severe and life-threatening conditions only. Minor illnesses and injuries should be managed by local clinics or general practitioners.
• Avoid preventable trauma. Practise road safety, avoid excessive alcohol consumption, and take measures to prevent accidents at home.
• Support healthcare workers. Respect the efforts of healthcare staff who work tirelessly under immense pressure to provide care.

In the event of an emergency, these are the numbers to dial:

• Police Flying Squad: 10111
• Ambulance Services: 10177
• Cell Phone Emergency: 112
• City of Cape Town General Emergency: 107 (from a landline) or 021 480 7700
• Disaster Risk Management Centre: 080 911 4357 (HELP)
• Poisons Information Helpline of the Western Cape: 0861 555 777
• Childline: 116
• Lifeline: 021 461 1113
• Wilderness Search and Rescue: 021 937 0300

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